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<\/a>Why Swaddling Works<\/strong> Giving your baby lots of time outside the swaddle is great for their development too! Tummy time,<\/a> being held facing out or even flat on their back in a safe spot all help strengthen muscles and coordination. Swaddling is for sleep and soothing, not for all-day use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Transitioning Out of the Swaddle<\/strong> Swaddling Troubleshooting<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n If your baby keeps breaking out, the blanket may be too small or loosely wrapped. Try a larger muslin or receiving blanket, or double-wrap using the techniques shown in our video. If your baby seems warm or fussy, make sure the room temperature is between 68\u201372\u00b0F and use a lightweight fabric. Babies who resist the swaddle may be approaching the rolling stage, in which case it\u2019s time to start transitioning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In our years of providing overnight newborn care, we\u2019ve seen how proper swaddling helps reduce overstimulation and promote restful sleep. A snug, safe wrap helps babies calm more quickly and allows parents to get longer stretches of rest too. Always place your baby on their back to sleep and follow the 10 Steps to Safe Sleep for Baby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For more baby care videos, visit our YouTube channel<\/a> and to answer other newborn care questions, visit Your First Week Home with Baby: Ultimate Q&A<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to safe swaddling, your baby should always be placed on their back to sleep and following the <\/a>10 Steps to Safe Sleep for Baby<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And for more tips, visit Your Newborn and Postpartum Questions Answered: Expert Advice from Let Mommy Sleep<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
One reason swaddling is so effective is because it helps calm the Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex. This is a completely normal, involuntary movement that all newborns have, where their bodies move as if startled. It\u2019s a sign of a healthy nervous system and usually fades by 3 to 4 months of age. However, in the early weeks, the Moro reflex can cause babies to wake themselves up just as they\u2019re falling asleep. A snug, safe swaddle helps limit those jerky movements so baby can stay asleep longer and feel secure, while still allowing the hips and legs to move naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSafe Swaddling Basics<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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When to Swaddle and When Not To<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You can help your baby adjust gradually by first leaving one arm out for several nights. Once they\u2019re comfortable, let both arms out while keeping the wrap snug around the torso. After a few nights, you can eliminate the swaddle blanket altogether and transition to a sleep sack<\/a> or wearable blanket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n